| In The News |
| Probiotics
Last weeks discussion of constipation brought up several questions on probiotics.The concept of probiotics has been around for 100 years, but scientists are just beginning to understand their role in maintaining health, regulating the immune system and managing disease.
"Probiotics are live cultures that, when consumed in sufficient quantities, can benefit our health" ... "The practice of adding friendly bacteria to the diet to promote immune and intestinal function is just beginning to become popular in the United States."  says John E Morley, MB, BCh [read more here].
While new research continues, the overall consensus is that probiotics are safe.
So what are probiotics and how are they important to aging adults? Many studies suggest overall health depends largely on the healthy function of the digestive system. And the bacteria that populate the digestive tract play a critical role in both of these functions. |
| RD Tip |
 Yogurt is a nourishing food and a good source of gut friendly bacteria that is well accepted by residents. However, not all yogurt has live bacteria (probiotic) cultures, so check labels.
Additionally live cultures may be contraindicated for residents who are immuno-compromised. For now, although safe, there is no clear evidence that probiotics are beneficial. |
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Dear Dietitians: |
Thank you to the HMC staff, my family and friends for helping me to celebrate 10 years cancer free! It was nice to see many of you at our party.
Proposed Mastectomy Law Change:
I want to bring to your attention that third-party health insurers are once again promoting the idea of drive-thru mastectomies. My personal experience with this surgery ten years ago convinces me that this should never be an out-patient surgery. It is major surgery with tissues from the shoulder to the waist manipulated plus an underarm incision for the lymph node biopsy. The pain was only manageable with morphine and I left the hospital after two days with drains in place, a large incision and barely able to move my arm. These physical issues are super-imposed on the emotional issues and fear of cancer. I urge you to take a few seconds to sign the Lifetime TV petition
You only need to type in your name and zip code. Let's use our collective voice to prevent legislators from making a difficult surgery disastrous.
Thank you again for all your work for HMC and your support of me, and helping Sam Ousey to raise funds for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. (You can still support Sam, see Quick links at left)
Sincerely;
Lee Tincher, MS, RD
President
HM Composite, Inc.
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